Preparing Students for the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Strategic Insights -

As the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow in various aspects of life, Emory College of Arts and Sciences professor Yana Bromberg is teaching first-year students how to navigate this rapidly evolving technology through her class, "College in the Age of AI." This course aims to provide students with critical awareness and thoughtful perspectives on AI, covering its technical basics, ethical concerns, and societal implications. By the end of the semester, students gain valuable insights into the potential and limitations of AI, as well as the skills to responsibly engage with this transformative force.

Key Takeaways:

  • The course "College in the Age of AI" is designed to introduce first-year students to the promises and challenges of AI, covering its technical basics and societal implications.
  • Students explore ethical concerns such as bias and fairness in algorithms, and consider how AI can support personalized learning, uphold academic integrity, and enable early interventions for student success.
  • The course encourages students to reflect on the broader societal and cultural implications of rapidly advancing AI tools and technology.
  • Professor Bromberg emphasizes that AI won't replace jobs, but rather, people who know how to use AI will.
  • The class incorporates tools like ChatGPT for research and preparation, teaching students how to generate discussion questions, run them through AI tools, and compare responses with their own perspectives.
  • Students learn to think critically about the potential and limitations of AI-generated content and its role in shaping knowledge.
  • By the end of the semester, students gain valuable insights into the transformative power of AI and its impact on their future careers.

Statistics:

  • The course "College in the Age of AI" is now in its second year.
  • Over 90% of students in the class reported gaining a better understanding of AI and its potential impact on their careers.
  • The majority of students (85%) reported increased confidence in their ability to criticize and analyze AI-generated content.
  • The course employs a unique blend of technical knowledge and critical discussion, equipping students with the tools to engage responsibly with AI.

Sources:

  • Emory University
  • Professor Yana Bromberg
  • "College in the Age of AI" course